Red Yarrow (Achillea millefolium rubra)

The plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet and spreads about 1 to 2 feet wide. The flowers are arranged in flat-topped inflorescences known as corymbs, creating a beautiful umbrella-like appearance. Red Yarrow is not only visually appealing but also holds historical and herbal significance.

Historical Information and Fun Facts: Red Yarrow has a rich historical background and has been used by various cultures for its medicinal properties. The genus name “Achillea” is derived from the Greek hero Achilles, who, according to mythology, used Yarrow to heal his soldiers’ wounds during the Trojan War. Native American tribes also valued Yarrow for its healing properties, using it for various purposes such as treating wounds and fever. The vibrant red variety, Achillea millefolium rubra, adds a splash of color to gardens and has been used in traditional herbal medicine as well as in ornamental landscaping.

Materials Needed for Growing Red Yarrow:

1. Red Yarrow seeds
2. Seed-starting trays or pots
3. Seed starting mix
4. Water source
5. Sunlight or grow lights
6. Well-draining garden soil
7. Garden space or containers
8. Mulch (optional)
9. Pruning shears

Steps to Grow and Harvest Red Yarrow from Seeds:

Seed Preparation: Red Yarrow seeds do not generally require pre-treatment. However, you can improve germination rates by stratifying the seeds in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks before planting. This involves placing the seeds in a damp paper towel within a plastic bag and keeping them in the refrigerator.

Growing:

1. Yarrow seeds benefit from a cold period prior to planting. Ideally, yarrow seeds need a month-long stratification window. You can achieve this indoors by storing seeds in the refrigerator for a month. Place seeds in a damp paper towel tucked into a plastic zipper bag or in damp sand.
2. Fill your seed trays or pots with seed-starting soil, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
3. Moisten the soil using a spray bottle, making sure not to over saturate it.
4. Sprinkle the yarrow seeds over the soil surface, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Seed requires light to germinate so do not cover with dirt.
5. Cover the trays or pots with plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome to help retain moisture.
6. Place the trays or pots under grow lights or on a sunny windowsill, making sure the temperature stays between 65-75°F. Germination can be slow with yarrow seeds. If you keep soil temperature at 70°F, germination should occur within 14 to 28 days. At lower soil temperatures, it can take as a long as 100 days for yarrow seeds to sprout. You might consider a heating mat.
7. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Transplanting:

1. Once seedlings have grown large enough, transplant them into well-draining garden soil in a sunny location or into containers if preferred.
2. Space the transplants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit.
3. Water the transplants well after planting and keep the soil consistently moist during the establishment phase.

Harvesting:

1. Red Yarrow can be harvested when its flowers are in full bloom.
2. Use pruning shears to cut the flowering stems just above a set of leaves.
3. Harvesting can be done throughout the flowering season.

Precautions: While Red Yarrow is generally safe for cultivation and use, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when handling the plant. It’s advisable to wear gloves when working with Red Yarrow to avoid any potential skin discomfort.

Uses for Red Yarrow:

1. Ornamental: Red Yarrow is often used in landscaping and flower arrangements due to its vibrant color and unique appearance.
2. Medicinal: Red Yarrow has been used in traditional herbal medicine for its potential health benefits.

Medicinal Benefits of Red Yarrow:

1. Wound Healing: Just like its historical uses, Red Yarrow is believed to have wound-healing properties. It contains compounds that may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
2. Digestive Aid: Red Yarrow has been used to support digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. Fever Reduction: Traditionally, Red Yarrow has been used to help reduce fever due to its potential diaphoretic (sweat-inducing) properties.
4. Menstrual Support: Some herbal traditions suggest that Red Yarrow may help with menstrual discomfort and support overall reproductive health.

It’s important to note that while Red Yarrow has a history of traditional use for these purposes, scientific research on its medicinal properties is ongoing, and consulting with a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes is recommended.